PCHS ceremony honors vets

Paul Augsburger of the Fairbury VFW speaks at PC High School on Thursday afternoon.

Showing respect to veterans and understanding the history of our nation were themes during the 2021 Veterans Day ceremony at Prairie Central High School in Fairbury Thursday afternoon.

PCHS Principal Wade Czerwonka explained how World War I was officially concluded in 1918 and President Wilson declared the date Armistice Day a year later. November 11 was eventually renamed Veterans Day by President Eisenhower.

“We should always show respect,” Czerwonka told the audience of students, veterans and community members in the PCHS gym.

He said the day is a celebration to honor the patriotism of veterans and their love of country for us all.

Paul Augsburger of VFW Post 9789 served as Master of Ceremonies and expressed his gratitude for everyone who attended Thursday’s program. Dating all the way back to the American Revolution, Augsburger feels there is no question what the soldiers were fighting for – our freedom.

“Selfless Americans have continued to stand up,” Augsburger explained.

Many have answered the call to service over the years with resilience, according to Augsburger, and many realize the importance of the day. Ever since the VFW was founded, the organization has worked to make a difference for veterans.

“We work to honor our veterans – not just on Veterans Day but every single day.”

Augsburger spoke of the importance of reaching out to support the newest generation of veterans such as those who have returned from the front lines of Afghanistan.

“America is truly the best country on Earth as a direct result of those who served,” Augsburger concluded.

Members of the Prairie Central High School band played a patriotic selection and provided Taps following a 21-gun salute which took place outside of the school.

The PCHS band performs patriotic music Thursday afternoon in the high school gym.